Last weekend (18-19th Oct) was the third edition of the Clean & Tidy Home Show with which Products of Change has partnered.

POC founder and CEO, Helena Mansell-Stopher, was in attendance, as well as speaking on a panel titled ‘Sustainable Living: Choices for a Thriving Home, Community, and Planet,’ discussing manageable sustainability changes everyone can make in their homes to have a positive impact on both their living space, community, and the planet.

Helena shares her thoughts on this year’s Clean & Tidy Home Show:

“As someone who spends most of my time at B2B trade shows, where businesses talk to other businesses, this past weekend was a refreshing change. I had the chance to partner with the Clean and Tidy Home Show—a consumer-facing event—and the experience was nothing short of fascinating.

“First, it was eye-opening to see how brands shift their communication when they’re speaking directly to consumers. It’s a completely different atmosphere from B2B events, where the audience is made up of industry professionals. At a consumer event, attendees are actively looking for the brands they love. They’re not there to network; they’re there to learn, explore, and connect with the products that can make a difference in their lives.

“And that was my “aha” moment. Every single talk, every panel on stage was packed. People weren’t just passing by; they came to listen, reflect, and truly engage with what was being said. They had the time and the mindset to absorb new information and discover ways to improve how they do things. It made me realise the unique opportunity brands have in these settings—especially when it comes to communicating about sustainability.

“In the business world, we spend a lot of time discussing new regulations, adapting operations, and minimising our environmental impact. But these conversations often happen behind the scenes. Consumers don’t get to hear about the hard work businesses are doing to be more sustainable. Instead, they’re left wondering, “How can I be more eco-friendly? Will I need to spend more money to make a difference?”

“Here’s where the magic happens: consumers can play a significant role in sustainability, and businesses need to bring them into the conversation. It’s not just about what companies are doing internally; it’s about sharing that journey with the public. People want to know how they can reduce their environmental footprint, and they’re eager to support brands that align with those values.

“At the Clean and Tidy Home Show, I saw firsthand how open and willing consumers are to learn. They don’t just want products—they want to understand the story behind them. This is where consumer-facing events shine. They provide a platform for brands to connect on a deeper level, educating and empowering people to make sustainable choices.

“Ultimately, the lesson is clear: All industries should interact more directly with their consumers. Sharing the sustainability journey isn’t just good for business; it’s essential for building a more informed and engaged community. And in the end, that benefits everyone—businesses, consumers, and the planet.”